Thursday, March 17, 2016

Why should I wear green? What is a leprechaun? Are Irish people really lucky? Is green beer safe to drink? You’re in luck.

1. Luck of the Irish?
Many St. Patrick’s Day traditions revolve around luck. Ironically, the Irish have been very unlucky people as history will tell. The phrase “luck of the Irish” can be traced in the 1900’s during the US gold rush where a high number of Irish people found gold and silver. Since Irish immigrants were viewed as incapable any success was deemed as luck, hence “luck of the Irish.”

2. Lucky number 7
A rainbow has 7 easily distinguishable colors. Both the rainbow and the number 7 are symbols of luck around the world in slot machines, triple sevens means you’ve hit the jackpot…your own pot of gold.

3. Special shamrocks
3-leaf clover – according to Christian legend, St. Patrick used the 3 leaf clover to teach the Irish pagans about the trinity.

4. Other Lucky Charms
Horseshoe – hang a horseshoe over your doorway – if you hang it “u” side down the luck will poor out.

5. Green: Is it lucky?
In the 19th century, green became a symbol of Ireland (also called “The Emerald Isle”). Wearing green is patriotic, and considered lucky especially on St. Patrick’s Day. The tradition of pinching those not wearing green began in Ireland many years ago. To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Chicago dyes the Chicago River green for the day, and many pubs serves green beer as a tradition. Don’t worry, it’s safe to drink.

6. Lucky Leprechauns
Root: leipreachan (pigmy or fairy) luchrupan (small body), or leath bhrogan (shoe maker). The Irish folklore, the Leprechauns are cranky fairies who mend the shoes of the other fairies. They have magical powers and delight in mischief and trickery, which they use to guard their fabled treasures. If you can catch a Leprechaun he must grant 3 wishes. Good Luck!

7. Kiss the what?
There is a stone of legend called “the Blarney Stone” which is set in the wall of a castle in the Irish village of Blarney. The stone is said to have magical powers, and whoever kisses the stone will have power of persuasion. Many Scottish kinds were crowned over the fated stone because it was believed to have special powers. Best to keep your kiss to a small peck, since millions of people have kissed this stone.